Tom, M.Div., P.Eng Bonnema
April 13, 2020
1934 ~ 2020
Passed peacefully into the presence of his Lord, on Monday, April 13th, 2020. Tom touched many lives as a friend, parent, grandparent, son, brother and uncle. Tom’s life is celebrated by his children, David and Cathy (Rick); his grandchildren, Adam, Jessica, Laura and Matthew; his sister, Lieke (Paul); and many nieces and nephews in Holland. Born in Gabon, Africa, Tom finished high school in Curacao, completed his BSc (Eng) at Queen’s University, MSc (Eng) at University of Toronto, and a PhD (Eng) from Purdue University. Tom touched the lives of thousands of university students in his 35-year teaching career as an Engineering professor at the University of Western Ontario and as a student advocate and academic counsellor while Associate Dean. Upon retirement, Tom attended Huron University College and completed a Master of Divinity degree. He was called to serve his community as a priest with the Anglican Church. The family would like to thank Dr. Cheryl Smits, whose patience and compassion was endless. A heartfelt thank you to the staff at Fiddick’s Nursing Home in Petrolia and Oakcrossing Retirement Living in London, for their dignified care and kindness in supporting Tom and his family. A private burial has taken place. Those wishing to make a donation in memory of Tom are asked to consider organizations Tom supported over the years: Mission Services of London – Men’s Mission, The Salvation Army – Adult Day Program or the London Food Bank. The family is appreciative of the assistance received by the staff at WESTVIEW FUNERAL CHAPEL during this time.
Leave a tribute for Tom, M.Div., P.Eng Bonnema
Leave a tribute
Such sad news. I was very fond of Tom. I lived on Heathcote Avenue and went to Banting with you. Tom was a cornerstone of emotional strength in the Faculty and he taught me many lessons that have served me well now that I am also a Professor in the same department. Cathy and David, you have my deepest sympathies.
It is indeed a very sad news. Tom, You set a wonderful example for all of our 'junior' faculty members, while we were together at Western. I miss you very much. RIP. My condolences also go to Tom's family at this difficult time.
We enjoyed Tom's presence at St. Michael and All Angel's Church and our association with him through the years. He will be missed Our condolences go out to Tom's family.
Prof Bonnema was one of my favorite professors in Eng Sc at Western. So sad to hear of his passing. Thoughts and condolences to his family
Dear Cathy, Rick, Laura and Matt, We are so sorry for the loss of your dad and grandpa. I always enjoyed my chats with Tom years ago at the soccer games and more recently at Oak Crossing and LHSC. He was a good Dutch man with a keen mind who will be missed. We hope that your memories will bring you comfort in times to come . Sending you lots of love at this difficult time
Our friendship with Tom came later in life through the parish of St. Michael and All Angels. We moved to Belleville in 2012 but remained in touch. Last summer we had a wonderful visit with him at Oakcrossings. He called us in the fall to say his health was slipping. I am so grateful for his spiritual ministry and rejoice he is with our Lord and Saviour. He indeed touched many lives in different ways. With great affection and our deepest sympathy. Donna and John Bruce.
I would like to offer my condolences to Tom's family. I enjoyed every opportunity I had to chat with Tom over the years and will always remember him for his kindness and compassion. He often surprised me with his ability to remember things we had spoken about months before. As I work for Western U and connect with many engineering alumni, I want you to know that Dr. Bonnema's name often came up as a professor that had made a particularly meaningful impact in the lives of our students. He will be fondly remembered by many people around the world. I am truly sorry for your loss. Virginia Daugharty
(Donated to Mission Services of London - Men's Mission)
(Donated to London Food Bank)
(Donated to The Salvation Army - Adult Day Program)
(Donated to Mission Services of London - Men's Mission)
(Donated to Back To God Ministries International (Today Booklet))
(Donated to London Food Bank)
Make a donation
If you wish to make a donation, please consider one of the charities listed below. You will be taken to the charity's website to process your payment.
The Salvation Army - Adult Day Program
Mission Services of London - Men's Mission
London Food Bank
Notify family of your donation
Kindly submit the form below if you wish to notify the family of your donation.Memories
Dear Cathy & Family, Please accept my condolences on Tom's passing. I'm so happy to have met your Dad. He and I used to chat about our Dutch heritage and he would teach me a few Dutch words. May your wonderful memories bring you peace and comfort. Vaarwel, Holly (Oakcrossing)
~ Holly Jordan